POSTED: 23/02/2023
As part of our "Get to know the Honda team" series, today we speak with Steve, our Maidstone Honda Dealership Manager. With years of motorcycle experience under his belt, Steve knows his way around a Honda - new or old! See what he had to say, find out how he got into motorcycling, and what he has his eyes on in 2023!
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"I've actually just ordered a CL500 in black! This bike looks amazing and I cannot wait to give it a try. It's lightweight, nimble and stylish. I'll definitely be styling it with a bit of 1970s classic scrambler tweaks - probably starting with a high dual under seat exhaust and some other little bits and bobs. Can't wait!"
"My older brother and dad got me into riding - my brother was always into British bikes, mainly the Bonneville T120, Norton Commando and BSA Bantam D1. I've now been riding, gosh... since I was 6 years old - so that's 49 years, and boy has time flown! I actually still have the bike I owned when I was 7 years old, and it definitely reminds me of my life on two wheels. One thing I really love about motorcycles is the way you get access to amazing technology on bikes that you get for way less than half the price you would with a car. Bundles cheaper! My dad used to ride a Lambretta Scooter, and I and the rest of my family used to bundle into the sidecar! I wish I had a photo of that."
"My best riding memory has to be the first test ride I ever had. It was aboard a GPZ900R! I won't give specifics as to how fast I was going, but let's just say, I would have been stopped if they could catch me! Maxing it out, back in the day when the enforcement was almost absent from the roads and streets. Another great memory was taking the bike to Wales for a look over the seashore. I'd just get dressed and go - it was easy! That was when I was living in Northampton."
"My favourite places to ride would have to be France, Brittany and Normandy because the roads are truly fantastic. The people are so considerate and there's tons of history, like the beaches with a fantastic museum to explore. It features an 1890s photography shop that shows all the old photos - truly spectacular. If you're ever in the area, be sure to check it out. Another amazing place to ride would be the western French coast of La Rochelle, you can ride from there down to Spain through the national park. Breathtaking."
"My advice for newer riders would have to be get training! Don't jump onto something you haven't got experience on before. Ride it in a car park first. Get used to moving it around etc. When you make it onto the road, always keep in mind and ASSUME that people do not see you. If you do that, you should stay clear of danger."
"Additionally, when it comes your time to buy a motorcycle, make sure you factor in the gear and security you will need too. Don't cheap out! It's always best to buy the biggest lock you can afford - this way you'll keep your pride and joy and not be left crying when it disappears."
"Oh! And finally, don't listen to old farts like me... get out there and do it yourself!"
Stop by today and check out the bikes in our showroom.
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